Interview with Bakhvi HPP Director, Giorgi Abramishvili
Work on the Bakhvi HPP project began in 2021. The first two years focused on conducting studies and securing all necessary permits for implementation. The company’s team actively engaged with government agencies, local communities, environmental groups, and media representatives. Public discussions and broad stakeholder meetings were held, enabling community members and interested parties to take part in open dialogue and decision-making. As a result of the company’s goodwill, ongoing community engagement, and recommendations from the Advisory Council, a comprehensive social program was developed and launched in the fall of 2021. To date, 90% of the planned projects under this program have already been completed.
Mr. Abramishvili, we understand that Bakhvi HPP’s social program has been implementing successfully. How did you ensure that it was well-received from the outset?
- - First of all, I’d like to highlight that the social program was not created unilaterally by our environment and social project team. It was developed together with the communities living near the construction area—the very people for whom these initiatives were designed. In the initial stage, we conducted a door-to-door needs assessment in the nearby villages. Based on the findings, we identified thematic directions and built specific projects around them. The program includes initiatives across various sectors: 1.Education – support for kindergartens, schools, and students form villages 2.Infrastructure – road and bridge rehabilitation, lighting, water systems 3.Small Business and Tourism – support for Gurian tea production, hospitality services 4.Support for Persons with Disabilities, and more. You’re absolutely right to say that 90% of these projects have already been successfully implemented. A few are still ongoing and will be completed before construction ends.
Mr. Abramishvili, is it fair to say that your projects have had a tangible impact on the quality of life in the nearby villages?
- - I believe so. We can clearly compare the situation in 2021 with where we are today. First, we kept our promise and employed a significant number of local residents. That means wages went directly into local households, which improved living conditions. Whenever possible, we prioritize locals when hiring machinery, services, or supplies. Our commitment was to keep the project budget circulating in the region—and that’s what we’re doing, whether it’s purchasing bread or renting a tractor. As for social projects: • Persons with disabilities have been receiving monthly support since 2021, which we believe helps address some of their needs. • In Vaniskedi, a village that has struggled with clean water access for as long as it has existed, we fully resolved the issue last year. • In Bakhmaro, we installed an energy-efficient lighting system in partnership with USAID’s energy program. • With support from USAID’s economic program, we strengthened the local Gurian tea and hospitality sectors. • We improved local infrastructure by repairing roads and building a new bridge. • Through educational programs, we supported kindergartens and raised awareness among schoolchildren on environmental and renewable energy topics. We’ve also brought in trainers to help high schoolers with career orientation. Additionally, we’re covering 80% of tuition fees for students studying disciplines vital to national development. Our goal was for the projects we implemented to bring real change—and I believe we’ve succeeded.
What happens after construction is completed? Do you have plans for future social support? What happens after construction is completed? Do you have plans for future social support?
- - As I mentioned, 90% of the projects are done, and the remaining 10% will be completed with the end of construction. But we’re not walking away from Mtispiri or halting our support for the community. Over a year ago, we presented a vision and agreed with the local municipality that Bakhvi HPP would establish a fund, into which the company will contribute a fixed amount annually as an act of goodwill. This fund will be jointly managed by the Mtispiri community and local authorities and will be used to address social and infrastructural issues in the area. We believe that through this initiative, Mtispiri’s development will continue—and Bakhvi HPP will remain a driver of positive change in the region.